Solidification Phenomena and Properties of Some Cast Tool Steels

The freezing process. microstructures and phase relationships in some experimental cast tool steels have been investigated and developed under the various solidification conditions. Experimental steels were based on AISI M2 and M10 grades high speed steels. Addition of carbide forming elements such as niobium and titanium with and without extra carbon were made to the molten bath of the base steels. The chemical composition adjustment and the microstructural and property changes are discussed in relation of possibilities for the development of tools cast close to finished shape with acceptable mechanical properties and lower production cost.